I was fortunate to work in East Helena for eleven years, and it holds a special place in my heart. In 2010, I was tasked with remediation work at the former ASARCO lead smelter. Little did I know how much this community would impact my life in a fantastic way!
In my career as a scientist, the East Helena community is the one place that was always engaged in the work and had a strong vision for positive change in their community. This community of tight-knit partners – the mayor and council members, East Helena public schools, local businesses, non-profit organizations, developers, and civic groups – was willing to do the hard work together.
In 2011, these partners sat down with federal and state colleagues and the trustee for ASARCO, Montana Environmental Trust Group, to collaboratively develop a vision for approximately 2,000 acres in East Helena. The principles that guided their vision were jobs, livability, transportation, trails, creeks, connectivity, and heritage. It is incredible to see the community vision created in 2011 become a reality – two new schools, commercial development, expanded manufacturing, a new rodeo arena, improved city infrastructure, and wildlife habitat and recreational trails along the restored Prickly Pear Creek!
Prickly Pear Land Trust was the partner that jumped in to work with the City to envision a recreational trail system. The Grove opened in 2023, and Prickly Pear Park opened on May 1! These two parks represent 320 acres that are now accessible to the public. Eventually, the Greenway Trail will connect East Helena with Montana City!
These two parks have created outdoor classrooms where East Helena students learn about their cultural and industrial heritage, the ecosystem, and remediation. There are endless opportunities for bird watching, wildlife viewing, hiking, biking, and relaxation.
It gives me goose bumps every time I visit these parks and experience the importance of community vision, partnership, and relationships! I encourage you to join me in East Helena to explore these new parks and experience this special community! If you see the education program splashing around in the creek this spring, please say “Hi!” I look forward to seeing you out there!
